Basil Hayden Distillery

Refined Kentucky Bourbon with a High-Rye Heritage

History

Basil Hayden traces its roots back to 1796, when Basil Hayden Sr,  a Maryland Catholic immigrant,  brought a distinctive high-rye bourbon recipe to Kentucky. His mash bill, unusual for its elevated rye content, laid the foundation for a lighter, spicier, more refined style of bourbon that still defines the brand today.
Revived in the modern era by the Beam family, Basil Hayden has become one of Kentucky’s most recognisable and approachable premium bourbons. While deeply connected to traditional bourbon heritage, the brand has evolved into a symbol of refinement, balance, and effortless drinkability, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned whiskey lovers alike.

Distilling Process

Basil Hayden is crafted using a high-rye mash bill, delivering gentle spice, lift, and structure without overwhelming intensity. The bourbon is distilled in classic Kentucky column stills, aged in new charred American oak, and bottled at a deliberately lower proof to preserve smoothness and approachability.

Rather than chasing extreme barrel strength or heavy oak, Basil Hayden focuses on balance, finesse, and clarity of flavour,  making it ideal for sipping neat, over ice, or in refined bourbon cocktails.

What Makes Basil Hayden Unique and Revered

Basil Hayden stands apart in the bourbon world for its elegant, lighter-bodied profile and unmistakable high-rye backbone. It is widely regarded as one of the best “gateway bourbons”,  offering complexity and character without the heat often associated with traditional high-proof expressions.

The brand has also embraced innovation, releasing unique expressions like Dark Rye, which blends Kentucky straight rye with Canadian rye finished in port barrels, and Toast, a softer, sweeter take highlighting toasted oak influence. These releases demonstrate Basil Hayden’s ability to evolve while remaining true to its refined house style.

Master Distiller & Team

Basil Hayden is produced under the guidance of the Beam family distilling team, drawing on more than seven generations of Kentucky bourbon expertise. The team’s focus is consistency, balance, and accessibility — ensuring every Basil Hayden release delivers the smooth, elegant character the brand is known for.

Signature Whiskeys

Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Light-bodied, high-rye, smooth and approachable.

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Soft, sweet, and mellow with gentle toasted oak influence.

Basil Hayden Dark Rye – A unique fusion of Kentucky and Canadian rye with port wine character.

Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke – Lightly smoked, elegant, and refined.

Basil Hayden 10 Year Old – Mature, balanced, and more structured, while retaining signature smoothness.

Awards & Recognition

• Consistently awarded Gold Medals at major international spirits competitions

• Regularly recognised for approachability, balance, and innovation

• Basil Hayden expressions frequently featured in Top Bourbon for Cocktails and Best Beginner Bourbon lists

• Widely praised for packaging, branding, and flavour accessibility

Basil Hayden’s success lies not in brute strength, but in precision, refinement, and broad appeal.

For the Bourbon Brothers Collection

Basil Hayden represents a different side of Kentucky bourbon — elegant, smooth, and effortlessly drinkable. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, and relaxed sipping, this collection offers refined flavour without intimidation.

→ Shop Basil Hayden Collection